You must familiarise yourself with the rules and policies governing Higher Degree by Research (HDR) candidates, as they are binding for all HDR students. Some faculties and schools may have additional provisions you should be aware of.
The University of Sydney (Higher Degree by Research) Rule (pdf, 568KB) sets out the overarching rules for all HDR degrees at the University. This Rule details key information, including admission processes, location and timeframes for candidature, and final thesis lodgement.
The HDR Rule refers to other policies for more detail on supervision, progress, and thesis examination processes.
The Research Code of Conduct (pdf, 484KB) is written in compliance with the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2018 and sets out the general good practice and responsibilities of researchers for collaborative research, publication and dissemination of research, authorship, conflicts of interest, record keeping and promotes academic integrity in research.
The Higher Degree by Research Supervision Policy (pdf, 501KB) and the Guidelines for Quality Supervision (pdf, 75KB) detail the principles and practice of supervision and the different responsibilities for those involved in a supervisory relationship.
In combination with the Higher Degree by Research Supervision Procedures (pdf, 185KB), they establish the role you should expect your supervisor to play throughout your candidature.
The Progress Planning and Review for Higher Degree by Research Students Policy (pdf, 460KB) and the associated procedures (pdf, 177KB) detail important processes such as progress plans, progress evaluation meetings, and milestones, as well as the different coursework requirements.
The Thesis and Examination of Higher Degree by Research Policy (pdf, 392KB) and Thesis and Examination of Higher Degree by Research Procedures (pdf, 180KB) details the examination process, including the form of your thesis and processes for appointing examiners.
They also describe oral and exhibition examinations, thesis with publications and examination outcome processes.
If you are the recipient of an RTP scholarship, refer to the Research Training Program Scholarships Policy (pdf, 309KB). This document outlines all details of your scholarships, such as scholarship suspension, extensions, and leave arrangements.
If you are the recipient of a non-RTP scholarship, please refer to Part 4, 'Research Training Awards' of Scholarships and Student Recognition Awards Policy (pdf, 260KB).
The Postgraduate Research Support Scheme (PRSS) supports additional student research activities that add value to your principal research activities.
These funds are intended to support conference, research, or fieldwork expenses. For detailed information, refer to the Postgraduate Research Support Scheme Procedures (pdf, 170KB).
Industry internships can be a useful part of your research journey and help extend your networks to those outside the University. An internship can help you develop a range of graduate qualities that will increase your ability to gain employment and learn how to apply your research in the real world.
The University has outlined all relevant items for consideration in the Higher Degree by Research Internships Procedure (pdf, 228KB) and Student Placement and Projects Policy Part 4: HDR Internships (pdf, 313KB).